News

Increase In College Conference And Events Business Leads to Team Expansion

A combination of two dedicated conference centres, investment in state-of-the-art AV facilities and expertise and availability of year-round facilities has resulted in a significant increase in conference and events business for a Cambridge College.

Murray Edwards College has seen 23% growth over the last 24-months which has led to expanding the team and creating five new roles, including AV technician, Marketing & Events Officer, Events Administrator, House Porter Supervisor and Catering Supervisor .
In terms of the type of events clients are booking, Day Meetings have seen the greatest increase, as well as Summer Schools for which Cambridge remains a favourite destination.

Out of all the facilities at Murray Edwards, Buckingham House is proving the most popular, as a purpose-built Lecture Theatre with its own Foyer, Seminar Room and Auditorium on the ground floor and a convenient flow between the registration desk, coffee station and meeting rooms.

Chris Pope, General Manager Residences, Conferences and Catering and) said: “This is a great team effort – we are delighted to see our conference and events business increase and a high level of repeat business from clients. Feedback shows that they appreciate our two conference centres – Buckingham House and The Kaetsu Centre – as well as our on-site car parking and knowledgeable and friendly team of staff.

“Unquestionably investing in our AV facilities has paid off and the appointment of Lorraine Wales as Head of AV, with her in-depth expertise and experience, has improved client confidence. The new members of our team have both College and commercial events experience which has undoubtedly raised the professionalism of our operation. Together we have also worked hard to balance the primary function of the College whilst selling our events facilities year-round.”

Robert Gardiner, Murray Edwards Bursar added: “ We are pleased to offer our facilities to conference guests and delighted with the financial contribution from it which helps to support our charitable objectives of learning education and research for our students.”